tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13712383323849541732018-02-19T10:45:05.874-05:00Love, PaulaPaulahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07936355582506286010noreply@blogger.comBlogger180125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1371238332384954173.post-76207304704291853102018-02-19T02:00:00.000-05:002018-02-19T10:45:05.985-05:00Clean Your ClosetI think most of us, if not all of us, have that place - or places - that just aren't as neat and tidy as they should be.&nbsp; You know what I'm talking about:&nbsp; junk drawer, table, end table, corner of the room...you get the idea.<br /><br />For me, it's a closet.&nbsp; When there is something I don't know what to do with or where it should go...if I don't want to deal with it right now...it goes in my closet.&nbsp; You wouldn't believe the junk that fits in that small space!<br /><br />While meditating I was "told" to <i>clean my closet.</i>&nbsp; I found this odd.&nbsp; What kind of spiritual message was this?&nbsp; I was meditating after all.<br /><br />It was revealed to me that what is going on in my outer world was a reflection of what is going on inside.&nbsp; The act of stuffing things in my closet was an outward expression of how I stuff things I don't want to deal with or don't know what to do with deep inside myself.&nbsp; Doing this doesn't mean that these things don't exist, it just means that I'm ignoring them or hiding them.&nbsp; They're still there and still need to be addressed.<br /><br />Spring is just around the corner.&nbsp; Maybe this year we should&nbsp;<strong><em>all</em></strong>&nbsp;consider doing some internal "Spring Cleaning" along with our normal spring cleaning.&nbsp; What do you think?<br /><br />Love,&nbsp; Paula<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Paulahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10148819995275241700noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1371238332384954173.post-75574892976692187272018-02-12T02:00:00.000-05:002018-02-11T17:04:52.625-05:00Valentine's Day 2018In the United States we celebrate a holiday called Valentine's Day.&nbsp; Every February 14th, everyone's attention is turned to thoughts of love.&nbsp; We buy presents, make special meals, and do nice things for those we love.&nbsp; We not only do these things for our romantic partners, but also for our children, grandchildren, parents, favorite aunts and uncles... anyone you love.&nbsp; We spend time, energy and money proving our love.<br /><br />There's nothing wrong with this, but if you love someone - or many "someones" - I'm sure you show it all the time by the loving things you do with and for them daily.&nbsp; You don't need a special day on the calendar to tell you to show your love.<br /><br />If you're like me, however, I'm betting there is one person you forget to treat lovingly...<b>YOURSELF.</b>&nbsp; We're always ready to jump in and help anyone and everyone when they want or need something from us.&nbsp; We put ourselves on the back burner.&nbsp; We allow ourselves to get worn out physically, mentally and emotionally as long as our loved ones are happy and taken care of.<br /><br />How about doing something different this year?&nbsp; How about on <i style="font-weight: bold;">this</i>&nbsp;Valentine's Day, besides doing for everyone else, do something for <i style="font-weight: bold;">yourself</i>.&nbsp; It can be anything - big or small.&nbsp; Take a nap.&nbsp; Relax in a hot bath.&nbsp; Schedule a massage.&nbsp; Take a walk.&nbsp; Read a book.&nbsp; Do some writing.&nbsp; Take yourself to lunch.&nbsp; Do <b>ANYTHING</b>&nbsp;that is just for you.&nbsp; Take an hour or so for yourself so you can have more energy to take care of others.&nbsp; It's not selfish.&nbsp; It's probably the best thing you can do for your loved ones<br /><br />Wishing you all a Happy Valentine's Day!<br /><br />Love,&nbsp; Paula<br />.Paulahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10148819995275241700noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1371238332384954173.post-10290561178901871182018-01-22T01:00:00.000-05:002018-01-22T07:13:32.925-05:00ForgivenessThis week I've been working with forgiveness.&nbsp; Forgiveness is another form of letting go.<br /><br />There are several people and events from my past that I need to forgive, but I just can't seem to get there.&nbsp; Some of the people have passed away, but I <i style="font-weight: bold;">STILL</i>&nbsp;need to forgive them.&nbsp; You see, by holding on to anger, hurt, betrayal or whatever other feelings you're feeling toward a person, people or event, you're not hurting them, you're only hurting yourself.&nbsp; When you hold these feelings inside, you can make yourself physically sick.&nbsp; These pent up emotions can cause ulcers, anxiety, heart disease, arthritis, depression, and even cancer.&nbsp; I <b>know</b>&nbsp;this is something I have to do, but this darn being human thing keeps getting in the way.&nbsp; Some lessons are more difficult than others.&nbsp; This is a <i>hard</i>&nbsp;one for me personally.<br /><br />We're <i style="font-weight: bold;">all</i>&nbsp;"works in progress"...no matter how young or old we are.&nbsp; I <b>know</b>&nbsp;with perseverance and help, we can learn to forgive and be set free.<br /><br />Love,&nbsp; PaulaPaulahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10148819995275241700noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1371238332384954173.post-5676652907931613472018-01-15T02:30:00.000-05:002018-01-15T02:30:31.536-05:00Letting GoLately I've been working with letting go.&nbsp; Letting go can mean different things to different people.&nbsp; You can let go of possessions.&nbsp; You can let go of people.&nbsp; You can let go of expectations.&nbsp; You can let go of the need to control people or situations.&nbsp; You get the idea.<br /><br />In my case, I'm working on letting go of the need to know what, when, where, and why things are going to happen.&nbsp; It's so difficult for me.&nbsp; I <i style="font-weight: bold;">know</i>&nbsp;that I can't control everything in my life, but being human, I always want to try.&nbsp; I use the Serenity Prayer as my mantra.&nbsp; It goes:<br /><br />Lord, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change,<br />The courage to change the things I can,<br />And the wisdom to know the difference.<br /><br />During one of my meditations this week, the guide I was working with asked me to step into a black hole that was in front of me...to step into an abyss.&nbsp; It was my choice to do it or not, but since I trusted her, I did as directed.&nbsp; I found myself suspended in dark nothingness.&nbsp; Then I heard the familiar voice of my teacher guide and felt her presence and the presence of other beings of light.&nbsp; She said, "We've got you.&nbsp; You were never alone and never will be alone."&nbsp; What a comfort.<br /><br />I felt led to share this with you because I believe that this is true for <i style="font-weight: bold;">EVERYONE!</i>&nbsp; Whatever your belief system; God, angels, guides, gods, goddesses, ancestors - whatever - we are never alone.&nbsp; There is <i style="font-weight: bold;">always</i>&nbsp;help for us whether we're aware of it or not.&nbsp; They're just waiting for us to ask for their help and guidance.<br /><br />Love, Paula<br /><br />PS.&nbsp; Week 2 of my non-resolutions complete and I'm still hanging in there.<br /><br /><br />Paulahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10148819995275241700noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1371238332384954173.post-70568589845194668162018-01-08T02:00:00.000-05:002018-01-08T02:00:05.910-05:00Guides and AngelsIn future blogs, I may be referencing Guides and Angels. I'd like to give you my definition so you understand where I'm coming from.<br /><br />To me, a guide is a being that has lived before and comes back to help people.&nbsp; They're often family or friends that you knew in your lifetime, but they don't have to be.&nbsp; It could be your mother, father, grandparents, siblings, in-laws or some other close relative.&nbsp; This could be very comforting.&nbsp; It could also be a great, great, great grandparent, aunt or uncle that you never knew.&nbsp; It doesn't really matter.&nbsp; What matters is that they're here to help you if you let them.<br /><br />To me, angels are beings that have never had a physical body.&nbsp; They have always been, and always will be in spiritual form.&nbsp; They have a sweet, gentle, comforting presence, but they are very powerful.&nbsp; They're all around and are just waiting for you to ask for their help.<br /><br />Guides and Angels are beautiful beings and are good to keep in touch with.&nbsp; Most people have had experiences of some kind or another:&nbsp; seeing them, feeling their presence, hearing a song, smelling a fragrance, watching a movie, hearing a phrase...just at the right moment.&nbsp; They're all around.&nbsp; Pay attention and you may experience them.<br /><br />Love,&nbsp; Paula<br /><br />PS.&nbsp; Week 1of my non-resolutions down and I'm still going strong.Paulahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10148819995275241700noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1371238332384954173.post-53949310659141323792018-01-01T01:40:00.000-05:002018-01-01T01:40:16.374-05:00Happy New Year 2018As I've mentioned in previous blogs, I really don't believe in New Year's Resolutions.&nbsp; I feel like it's just something that makes you feel bad about yourself when you quit doing it...a week later...<br /><br />This year starts with a super full moon.&nbsp; When there is a full moon, you're supposed to use that energy to improve something in your life.&nbsp; Because this full moon starts the new year, you're supposed to set your intentions for the year.<br /><br />My intentions for the new year are:&nbsp; meditate more regularly, blog and write more regularly, and take better care of myself by exercising and eating better.&nbsp; WOW...that sounds like New Year's Resolutions.&nbsp; Oh well...intentions set.&nbsp; I'll let you know how I make out.<br /><br />Wishing you all a happy, healthy, prosperous 2018 filled with wonderful surprises and magic!<br /><br />Love,&nbsp; PaulaPaulahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10148819995275241700noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1371238332384954173.post-43679807087584272612017-09-25T00:30:00.000-04:002017-09-25T00:30:12.097-04:00Along Came A SpiderOnce a month I read a channel called "Beacons Of Light".&nbsp; Steve Rother channels "The Group".&nbsp; They give messages to help us grow and move through life with a little more ease.&nbsp; Several times in the last couple of years "The Group" talked about taking a step where there is nothing.&nbsp; The ground will form under your foot before you put it down...kind of like taking a leap of faith.&nbsp; I don't have a problem with the phrase, "leap of faith", but I couldn't wrap my mind around the concept of taking a step where there is nothing and the ground would be there before you put your foot down.<br /><br /><i><b>Along came a spider.</b></i>&nbsp; You know how there are things around you all the time, but you don't really <b>SEE</b> them?&nbsp; One day while sitting on my patio, I started observing a spider spinning it's web. I see spiders all the time.&nbsp; I see spider webs all the time.&nbsp; This time was different.&nbsp; I was actually paying attention to it.&nbsp; In a short amount of time, this incredible creature took an empty space and filled it with the most beautiful work of art..&nbsp; AMAZING!!!<br /><br />While I was observing the finished product,it occurred to me that the spider is the perfect example of putting your foot down before there is something under it.&nbsp; The spider has faith in itself and it's ability.&nbsp; It <i style="font-weight: bold;">knows</i>&nbsp;that if it moves forward and there is nothing underneath it, it will be okay.&nbsp; The web material will just <i>be</i>&nbsp;there.<br /><br />Ultimately it's all about faith and trust.&nbsp; You have to have faith in yourself, your abilities, your gifts.&nbsp; Then you have to trust that your creator will be there to help and support you.&nbsp; If you're having difficulty while you're trying to move forward, remember our little spider and move forward with renewed confidence.<br /><br />Love,&nbsp; PaulaPaulahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10148819995275241700noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1371238332384954173.post-77219392241083505792017-09-17T21:54:00.000-04:002017-09-18T08:45:19.072-04:00FallI LOVE fall. &nbsp;It's not quite fall yet, but it's starting to feel like fall. &nbsp;I love that the air is cooler. &nbsp;I love that it's no longer humid. &nbsp;I love that the sky is bluer, the grass is greener and the leaves are starting to turn into their beautiful golds, yellows, oranges and reds. &nbsp;I love that it's football season. &nbsp;I love concord grapes, apples and cider. &nbsp;I love all things pumpkin. &nbsp;I love the clothes...sweaters, sweatshirts, slacks, jackets. &nbsp;I love long walks in the woods. &nbsp;I love Halloween. &nbsp;I love Thanksgiving. &nbsp;Did I mention that I LOVE FALL?!!! &nbsp;<strong><em>I feel so alive at this time of year</em></strong>.<br /><br />Fall is the season that symbolizes the process of dying. &nbsp;Flowers are dying. &nbsp;Trees lose their leaves. &nbsp;Vegetable gardens finish producing. &nbsp;Everything is getting ready for the upcoming winter (death). <br /><br />In my blog "More About Spring" dated 5/11/15, I talked about spring being the season that symbolizes birth and rebirth and how ironic it was that I went to a cemetery to enjoy spring. I find it interesting that in the season that readies us for death (fall), I come alive.<br /><br />Love, &nbsp;PaulaPaulahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10148819995275241700noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1371238332384954173.post-11675122040348130922017-09-11T00:00:00.000-04:002017-09-11T00:00:11.371-04:00Cherokee Prayer<br /><br /><br />If the "Love Meditatiion" does not resonate with you, maybe this simple little prayer will. &nbsp;It's a repost, but is still one of my favorites.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br />I read this on line and LOVED it. I wanted to share. <br />&nbsp; <br /><br /><br /><br />"Oh Great Spirit <br />Who made all races,<br />Look kindly upon<br />The whole human family<br />And take away the <br />Arrogance and hatred<br />Which separates us<br />From our brothers." <br /><br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp; <br /><br /><br /><br /><br />What a beautiful thought. What a beautiful prayer. What if we ALL prayed that daily and what if God heard our prayer? What if it worked? What if it changed our world?&nbsp; Let's give it a try. <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Love, Paula<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Paulahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10148819995275241700noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1371238332384954173.post-45819275339703927192017-09-04T00:00:00.000-04:002017-09-05T08:45:52.836-04:00"Love" MeditationAs a follow up&nbsp;to last week's blog, I'd like to offer a simple meditation about receiving love and sending love.&nbsp; <br /><br /><br />Take a deep breath......let it out.<br /><br /><br />Take another deep breath.....let it out.<br /><br /><br />Now with the next "in" breath, breathe in the love of the Universe.&nbsp; Feel the love enter your body.&nbsp; Feel your heart expanding with love.<br /><br /><br />On the "out" breath, send that love to the Earth and&nbsp;ALL it's inhabitants.&nbsp; I visualize the Earth with&nbsp;a beautiful pink (love) cloud sweeping over it and engulfing it.&nbsp; <br /><br /><br />Repeat:&nbsp; "In" - love from the Universe<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Out" - love to the Earth and ALL it's inhabitants.<br /><br /><br />In - Love, Out - Love, <br /><br /><br />In - Love, Out - Love<br /><br /><br /><br />Repeat this for as long as you're comfortable.<br /><br /><br />It's that easy and it's powerful.&nbsp; Enjoy!<br /><br /><br />Love,&nbsp; PaulaPaulahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10148819995275241700noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1371238332384954173.post-46623993839220658122017-08-28T00:30:00.000-04:002017-08-28T18:03:52.721-04:00A Cure For The WorldIn this last year or so I've been noticing so much discord, anger, anxiety, hate and fear being spewed. It makes you stop and wonder why and what can be done about it. Is there anything I can do personally?<br /><br />While pondering these questions, I was brought right back here to my blog site and the reason I started it in the first place... LOVE. Ultimately, that's the answer to EVERYTHING,<br /><br />No war or protest has ever changed people's hearts. Oh, maybe it settled a certain dispute... for awhile... but eventually something else springs up somewhere else. Some other religious outrage, civil rights cause, or crazy, power hungry individual steps onto the world stage and we're ready to go to war and/or protest - AGAIN! It seems to be a never ending cycle.<br /><br />I suggest we try something different. Instead of sending discord, anger, anxiety, hate, fear, bombs, soldiers, tanks or guns, let's send LOVE. Bomb the person, country, race, religion, people that cause you anxiety, fear and discord with LOVE. This should accomplish two things. First, it will change YOUR heart. You will be living in LOVE instead of angst. Second, it should change the heart of the recipient. They should start living in LOVE. They won't know what hit them.<br /><br />Now understand, you have to do this with a pure intention because that's what real love is... pure. You're not trying to control anyone, you're simply sending LOVE. All the great masters taught this: &nbsp;Jesus, Buddha, Mohammad, ALL OF THEM. But they didn't have the internet and could not reach the world all at one time.<br /><br />So let's make this a global experiment. Sit for just ten minutes a day and send LOVE to the world and ALL its inhabitants... ALL OF ITS INHABITANTS - no exceptions. I believe if we all would do this, we could change our world. Worth a try, right?<br /><br />Join me. I'm excited to see what happens.<br /><br />Love, &nbsp;PaulaPaulahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10148819995275241700noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1371238332384954173.post-3854061468452358392016-12-30T22:20:00.000-05:002016-12-30T22:20:46.451-05:00ReflectionsFor most people it seems that when we're about to enter a new year, it's natural to reflect on the year that is closing. &nbsp;Every year I hear or read <i>some </i>people saying, "I can't wait until this year is over.", "This year can't end soon enough.", or something to indicate that the year that is ending held some bad memories. &nbsp;For whatever reason, this year seems to have an unbelievable amount of people anxious for the old year to end and a new one to begin.<br /><br />As I've mentioned before, I was in an automobile accident this past year. &nbsp;It was on April 20th and I'm still healing from it. &nbsp;The car was totaled, I had a broken collar bone, bruises from my neck to my toes, four bulging discs, aches, pains and migraines. &nbsp;I was in a sling for 8 weeks, had physical therapy for several months, was on medication and experienced much pain and discomfort. &nbsp;BUT, I learned - and continue to learn - so much from this whole experience. &nbsp;It was truly life changing. &nbsp;I have become more aware of my body and it's needs. &nbsp;I have grown spiritually. &nbsp;And although I wouldn't consciously choose to experience an accident like that and I hope I never have to go through anything like that again, I AM SO GRATEFUL for the beautiful lessons I have learned.<br /><br />Buddha said, "Every experience, no matter how bad it seems, holds within it a blessing of some kind. &nbsp;The good is to find it."<br /><br />I guess that's what I'm feeling. &nbsp;I believe that everything happens for a reason &nbsp;So instead of complaining or feeling sorry for myself, I strive to find the reason...the gift. &nbsp;Then I can take that grateful energy into the new year. <br /><br />How you experience life is your choice. &nbsp;Choose wisely.<br /><br />I wish you all a year filled with blessings, gratitude, and magic. &nbsp;Happy 2017!<br /><br />Love, &nbsp;PaulaPaulahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10148819995275241700noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1371238332384954173.post-80979471897135191622016-10-23T16:46:00.000-04:002016-10-23T22:45:28.404-04:00Our Mini Melting PotWe are so blessed where I live. We are on the shore of Lake Erie, one of the five fresh water Great Lakes.<br /><br />There are many cities on Lake Erie. What makes where I live so special is our peninsula - Presque Isle. It's rich in history and rich in fun. There are 13 sandy beaches, a bike path, 21 miles of recreational trails, a marina and historical sights.<br /><br />In the spring, summer and autumn, you'll find people out on the peninsula going for drives, walks, runs, roller blading, biking, fishing and picnicking. In the summer you'll also find people boating, swimming and flying kites on "kite beach". There are free pontoon boat rides on the lagoons in the summer to see the natural habitat of many birds and animals. You always see beaver dams and turtles. Often there will be heron and maybe even an eagle. There are free concerts on the beach in the summer too.<br /><br />In the winter, people can be found ice fishing, ice skating, and even cross country skiing. It is such a gem.<br /><br />What I love most is that it is a state park, but there is no cost to get on Presque Isle. It's a true melting pot. It doesn't matter if you're a billionaire or if you don't have a penny to your name, you can go there to swim, walk, fish, pontoon boat ride, picnic, or go to a concert. It doesn't matter if you're in shape or out of shape. Your ethnic origin doesn't matter. At our beautiful Presque Isle, EVERYONE is equal. It's the true meaning of a melting pot on so many levels. I love that!<br /><br />Love, PaulaPaulahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10148819995275241700noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1371238332384954173.post-41579318474736449442016-09-18T23:40:00.002-04:002016-12-24T23:51:32.747-05:00The Challenge<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://ekahicenter.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/challenge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://ekahicenter.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/challenge.jpg" height="248" width="320" /></a></div><br />As I've mentioned numerous times before, I am a Reiki Master Teacher. I have been doing Reiki for so long now that I don't give it much thought. It has become a part of who I am.<br /><br />A couple of weeks ago, someone I know unknowingly challenged my belief in Reiki and what it can do. By challenging Reiki, she made me REALLY think about it. Reiki isn't the ONLY thing that defines me, but it certainly is a big part of who I am and what I believe. <br /><br />This person that challenged me is a medium. As such she works with spirit in her readings and healing work. Reiki is an energy therapy. Science has proven that everything is made from energy. Reiki practitioners allow the energy to be channeled through them. The client then draws the energy they need. <br /><br />The challenge made me think about all the people that I have worked with and all the help they have received because of the Reiki energy. I AM so grateful to this person and her challenge. She made me think about what I do and why I do it. She allowed me to reaffirm my conviction. The whole experience was such a gift and she doesn't even know that she did all this for me. <br /><br />The next time someone "challenges" you, what you do, or your belief system, be grateful. It will make you re-examine your life or the parts of your life that have been challenged. It gives you the opportunity to either let go of something that you no longer need in your life, or to reaffirm that this is something that should remain in your life. It's such a gift. <br /><br />Love, Paula<br /> Paulahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10148819995275241700noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1371238332384954173.post-31968660737226000532016-08-29T00:30:00.000-04:002016-08-29T09:43:15.532-04:00Angels Among Us<br />As I mentioned in last week's blog, I was in an automobile accident on April 20th. It was a surreal experience - one I hope to NEVER repeat. I try to understand, look for the lessons and look for the good in all situations.<br /><br />Right after the accident happened, I think even before my car stopped spinning, a wonderful stranger came over. On his way to my car, he called 911 and explained the situation. Police, fire department and paramedics were alerted. When he got to my car, he opened the door to check and see how I was doing and what kind of help I needed. He kept me conscious and alert by constantly and gently talking with me and holding my hand until the paramedics arrived. He was on his lunch break from work. He didn't know me. He took about 45 minutes out of his life to help and be with a total stranger. His gentle kindness and caring can never be repaid and will never be forgotten. He was my angel at that moment in time.<br /><br />Someone very close to me recently had an accident. He had several angels show up. Several high school girls were walking up the road. They saw he was bleeding and in need. They happened to have baby wipes on them. They gave the wipes to him to help clean up his wounds. A person that lived near by came and sat with him until help arrived. Several passers by stopped to see if they could help in any way.<br /><br />Night after night all you hear on the news are the "bad" things that happen - robberies, shootings, drugs. It makes you feel like the whole world and all the people in it are corrupt and awful. The Angels are out there. It may be the person that says the right thing to you at the right time. An unexpected phone call. Help that arrives at the exact right moment. It may be someone you know or it may be a complete stranger. Look for your angels. They're out there. When you experience the kindness of perfect strangers like I have, it gives you a warm hope for humanity. You can't help but KNOW that there are Angels Among Us.<br /><br />Love, Paula <br />Paulahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10148819995275241700noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1371238332384954173.post-62952918485518915192016-08-21T23:14:00.000-04:002016-08-21T23:14:14.021-04:00Lessons From My Back...So Far<br />I was in an automobile accident on April 20th. The car was totaled. I had - and still have - many physical issues because of it. The latest issue is that my back went out.<br /><br />I'm a firm believer that everything happens for a reason. I always try to pay attention to and notice what's going on so I can learn the lessons that are being "taught" to me. This helps me to better understand WHY things happen. There are the typical physical lessons, but underneath that are the more important spiritual lessons. Those are the things I try to understand.<br /><br />Here are the things I've learned so far:<br /><br />1. The first lesson happened when instead of turning around to move, I took a step backwards. Pain shot through my back and leg. Lesson - DON'T go backwards. Only move forward.<br /><br />2. The second lesson happened when I tried to go for a walk. My normal gait is rather large steps. This shot pain through my back and hip. Lesson - while moving forward, take small steps.<br /><br />3. While shopping, all of a sudden my back felt like it was going to explode. I realized that it was because I was carrying a large purse filled with "everything but the kitchen sink." Lesson - lighten my load. I don't have to carry everyone's burdens.<br /><br />4. If I stand in one place too long, my back and hips start hurting, burning. Lesson - Don't stand still too long. Move forward. <br /><br />These are all things I "know", but unfortunately sometimes have to be reminded. I want to learn these lessons and start living them so I don't have to go through these "classes" again.<br /><br />I suppose that for some people, this is an unusual way of looking at things. For me, it makes life more interesting and gives purpose to what might be perceived as unfortunate circumstances. Instead of feeling sorry for myself for the pain I'm experiencing, I look for the lessons so I can learn the "why's" of what's going on in my life and hopefully change. <br /><br />If you're a person that's in pain - physical, emotional, mental, or spiritual - I hope this can help you in some way. I know it helps me.<br /><br />Love, Paula Paulahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10148819995275241700noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1371238332384954173.post-89474746722870951982016-08-07T22:31:00.000-04:002016-08-07T22:44:29.925-04:00Being Butterflies<br />It's easy for me to see the gifts and talents of others. I admire their interesting, useful, unique abilities. I sometimes compare myself to them and feel like I fall short. <br /><br />As I move along on my path, I'm realizing that I'm not the only one that has these feelings. In speaking with friends and family, I find that many of them have the same thoughts. They wish they had certain gifts and talents. They can't see their own beauty. Funny, I can see their beauty, but often can't see my own. They can see mine, but can't see their own. <br /><br />Why are we so hard on ourselves? Why does it seem like someone else's contribution is somehow bigger, better, or more important than our own?<br /><br />Many years ago while meditating, I was told, "We all have a piece of the puzzle. It's our job to bring it forth. It doesn't matter how big or small the piece is, the puzzle isn't complete until ALL the pieces are put together."<br /><br />I read, "Did you know that it is physically impossible for a butterfly to see it's own wings? Did you also know that the wings of a butterfly are considered to be one of the most beautiful of natures creations? They can't see how beautiful they are, but everyone else can. I feel like people can be the same way." <br /><br />We ALL have something to offer. We ALL have a piece of the puzzle. We ALL have our own individual beauty. We need to accept our own beauty, uniqueness, special gifts and talents. We need to help others see and accept theirs. Let's quit being butterflies so we can see the beauty in everyone and everything...including ourselves. <br /><br />Love, Paula Paulahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10148819995275241700noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1371238332384954173.post-37090293908720736052016-07-31T22:33:00.000-04:002016-08-01T06:43:44.984-04:00Moving Forward<br />If you're like me, you probably spend some of your time and energy thinking about the past. If you're thinking about past times that were fun, sweet, or enjoyable, that's okay as long as you don't LIVE in the past and forget to LIVE in the present. If you're spending all your time reminiscing about the past, you're not allowing yourself to make new memories. It's okay to remember as long as you don't obcess.<br /><br />Now, if you're spending time in the past regretting or feeling guilty, that's a whole different thing. Guilt is wasted energy. Instead of feeling guilt, try to figure out what lessons you have learned so that you don't repeat the action about which you're feeling guilt. You have then made a negative into a positive and there is no reason for guilt. Then you are free to move forward into the wonderful possibilities of the future.<br /><br />I read, "There is a reason your windshield is bigger than your rear view mirror. Where you're headed is much more important than what you've left behind.". I think those are words to live by.<br /><br />Love, PaulaPaulahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10148819995275241700noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1371238332384954173.post-76723066658685101612016-07-24T22:51:00.000-04:002016-07-25T10:50:50.311-04:00ConnectionsLast Tuesday, July 19th was a full moon and it was gorgeous! When I went outside to start watching it, it was still low in the sky so it was big and bright.<br /><br />As I sat "moon bathing", meditating and contemplating in the glow of beautiful Luna, I so wanted to share it with everyone I love. I immediately texted my daughter, son and two grandsons that live in the same city I live in. Texts started coming back, appreciating that I brought it to their attention. I wished that I could share it with my son that lives in LA. The lightbulb went off...they see the same moon in California that we see in Pennsylvania...just at a different time. So I texted my son in LA, a friend in Carlsbad, and a friend in Tucson. I received texts back. Just like that because of modern technology and the more than ancient moon, we were ALL connected.<br /><br />It reminded me of the 1986 movie "An American Tail" where Fieval Mousekewicz was separated from his family. While trying to find them, he looked at the moon. He knew that they were "Somewhere Out There" looking at that same moon. The moon kept them connected.<br /><br />That's how I was feeling that night. I felt connected to everyone and everything. I felt the oneness of all. My heart was so filled with love and gratitude that I wanted to burst. I sat and cried with appreciation and joy. I have believed for some time that we are all connected and are all one, but that night I KNEW it...I FELT it. It was amazing.<br /><br />My wish is that everyone could have that experience. I wish that we could all have that knowing and live it all the time. You can't hate and do harm to others if you "know" that we are all one - that we are all connected. It's certainly something to strive for. Join me?<br /><br />Love, Paula Paulahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10148819995275241700noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1371238332384954173.post-39808729153505098032016-07-17T09:46:00.000-04:002016-07-17T09:46:00.468-04:00Meditation<br />Back on May 21, 2012 I posted a simple yet very effective meditation. Since then I've modified it a little. There are so many families that have discord within them...family members not speaking to each other, talking "about" each other instead of "to" each other to straighten things out...things like that. So this simple 10 minute meditation came to me. Whether your family is broken or whole, it's a good way to start your day.<br /><br /> On the "in" breath, breathe in peace.<br /><br /> On the "out" breath, send that peace to your family, city, country, world.<br /><br /> Continue this for five minutes: "In" - peace. "Out" - peace to family, city, country, world.<br /><br /> After five minutes, switch to love. <br /><br /> "In" breath - take in love from the Universe.<br /><br /> "Out" breath - send love to your family, city, country, and world.<br /><br /> Continue sending love for five minutes.<br /><br />It's so very easy and it only takes 10 minutes. If everyone would do this, every person, city and country in the world would be sending and receiving peace and love every single day.. Imagine the possibilities.<br /><br />When you see all that's going on in the world today and wish there was something you could do, well now you can. Simply receive and send peace and love. Then watch YOUR world change.<br /><br />Love, PaulaPaulahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10148819995275241700noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1371238332384954173.post-58519886046681510522016-05-16T01:00:00.000-04:002016-05-16T01:00:01.222-04:00Thoughts on Mother's Day...AND Father's DayWhere I live, we set aside a special day in May to honor our mothers...Mother's Day, and a special day in June to honor our fathers...Father's Day. Hopefully we're honoring them 365 days a year, but we take special notice when it's their special day.<br /><br />This year Mother's Day was on May 8th. There was a barrage of pictures and tributes on Face Book declaring that particular person's mother was THE BEST mother ever! Wait a minute...if I have the best mother ever and you have the best mother ever and we don't have the same mother, how does that work? We both can't have "THE BEST MOTHER".<br /><br />My daughter wrote a very nice tribute. "Happy Mother's Day to my role model. I hope I'm half the mom, cheerleader, and friend to my kids that you have always been to me. I love you!" Perfect! It was personal between her and I. She's not declaring that I'm the best mom ever, she's telling me how I have impacted her life and what I mean to her personally.<br /><br />I think that's what most people mean to do. We all need to have our own lessons and experiences. I believe that when we come into this world, we come to the best parents for US so that we can have the lessons and experiences we need. So when people say, "I have the best mom ever", what they're trying to say is that they have the best mom for THEM.<br /><br />The same holds true for fathers. We have the best fathers for us to learn and experience our own personal life lessons.<br /><br />So...happy belated Mother's Day to all you "best moms ever" out there. And Happy Father's Day in advance to all you "best dads ever" out there.<br /><br /><br />Love, Paula<br />Paulahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10148819995275241700noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1371238332384954173.post-29036077609164659342016-01-05T12:19:00.000-05:002016-04-02T13:33:36.183-04:00Happy New Year! Happy 2016! How is it going for you so far? Are you still keeping your New Year's Resolutions? As a child, teen, and even a young adult I made resolutions. The problem was, no matter how good my intentions were, I never kept them for very long. I was lucky if they lasted a month. After I broke my resolution, I would feel bad about myself. Why couldn't I: exercise regularly, meditate daily, eat healthier, visit elderly relatives regularly, or whatever that year's resolution was? Was I a terrible person? What was wrong with me? I realized that this same situation applies to most people. I would discuss it with friends and find out they were thinking they were awful people too. Then I would try to help them feel better about themselves. I'd like to know who started all this nonsense about New Year's Resolutions anyway. Well, many years ago I FINALLY came up with a resolution I could keep. I make the same one every year. You know what that resolution is? I DON'T MAKE RESOLUTIONS!!! Now I feel really good about myself. Happy New Year! Love, Paula Paulahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10148819995275241700noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1371238332384954173.post-92204305787766192682015-12-29T22:12:00.000-05:002016-04-02T13:34:01.742-04:00New Year's MeditationIt's almost 2016. While contemplating the end of the old year and the arrival of a new one, I came up with a meditation/visualization. Here it is: Pretend you are about to sell your home and move into a new one. Before you leave your old home, you walk through each room one last time. In each room, stop for a moment and reflect on the good, positive memories that were created in that room. Focus only on the positive memories... Leave the discordant memories behind. Savour the positive memories. Once you've gone through each and every room, once you've collected all the positive memories, take them with you as you walk through the front door. Close the door of the old year, don't look back. Walk through the threshold into the New Year filled with magic, wonder and unlimited possibilities. Happy New Year. Have a magical 2016. Love, PaulaPaulahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10148819995275241700noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1371238332384954173.post-90376403843578035372015-12-21T00:30:00.000-05:002015-12-14T09:44:11.944-05:00Peace On EarthI'm reposting this because it's one of my favorite Christmas posts. I wish you all a happy, healthy, and magical holiday season. Love, Paula My all-time favorite song - not just Christmas song, but ANY&nbsp;song - is the duet with Bing Crosby and David Bowie, "Peace On Earth". &nbsp;Every year, the first couple of times I hear it, it touches my soul and I cry. <br /><br />Bing Crosby was my father's favorite singer. &nbsp;His albums were a staple in my house growing up. &nbsp;He was like a god. &nbsp;My father sang and patterned himself after Bing. &nbsp;You get the idea, he was a BIG DEAL in my life. <br /><br />I remember when "Peace On Earth" first aired back in 1977. &nbsp;At that time, it actually upset me. &nbsp;It was Bing Crosby's last Christmas special. &nbsp;He died a month before it aired. &nbsp;I couldn't believe that of all the celebrities in the world, someone decided that <i>David Bowie</i>&nbsp;should be on Bing's Christmas special. &nbsp;It seemed like a bizarre choice to me. &nbsp;Bing's Christmas specials were always "warm and fuzzy," a good old-fashioned Christmas. &nbsp;David Bowie? &nbsp;<b>REALLY?!!!</b>&nbsp; Then, when they sang that song, David Bowie was the lead and Bing basically sang backup for him. &nbsp;Again... <b>REALLY?!!! &nbsp;</b>&nbsp;I was very upset.<br /><br />After the song aired, it came out that David Bowie was supposed to sing "Little Drummer Boy" with Bing but refused. &nbsp;He said he hated that song and just couldn't do it. &nbsp;<i>Now</i>&nbsp;I was furious. &nbsp;The nerve of him to give my beloved Bing such a hard time on what ended up being his last Christmas special ever. &nbsp;Who did he think he was?!!!!!!<br /><br />Fast forward 25 years or so. &nbsp;My youngest son sent me a Christmas CD he made for me. &nbsp;It has songs from many different artists. &nbsp;Guess what song is number 16? &nbsp;That's right, "Peace On Earth." I couldn't believe it. &nbsp;He sent me <i>this</i> song that I had such strong emotions about. &nbsp;Of course, he had no idea. &nbsp;Understand, it wasn't the actual song that I had an aversion to, it was the story that went with it. &nbsp;Truthfully, I don't remember if I actually even listened to the song itself. &nbsp;Well, I don't know exactly what changed between then and now (it was probably me), but I fell in love. &nbsp;I could not believe what a beautiful, meaningful song it was.&nbsp;&nbsp;Like I said before, it touches my soul.<br /><br />As I think about and read about how this incredible song came to be, it just blows me away. First, this impudent 30-year-old rocker refuses to sing a particular song with BING CROSBY. &nbsp;So three people get together and scribble something out quickly to take its place. &nbsp;Then Bing and David Bowie rehearse for an hour and a half. &nbsp;Next they record it and they nailed it! &nbsp;The rest, as they say, is history. <br /><br />I'm a firm believer that everything happens for a reason.&nbsp;&nbsp;I <strong><em>finally </em></strong>got it.&nbsp; It wasn't about Bing.&nbsp; It wasn't about David Bowie.&nbsp; It was about the message in the lyrics. &nbsp;<b>ALL</b> these circumstances had to come together to make this beautiful&nbsp;song happen.&nbsp;&nbsp;The WHOLE thing was so incredibly inspired. <br /><br />I leave you now with the gift of this wonderful, moving song. &nbsp;Enjoy. &nbsp;I wish you all a happy holiday season filled with Peace On Earth. &nbsp;Merry Christmas!<br /><br />Love, &nbsp;Paula<br /><br /><center><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/jCQwwCRiDZQ" width="560"></iframe></center><br />Paulahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10148819995275241700noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1371238332384954173.post-69199574107134000472015-12-14T03:00:00.000-05:002015-12-14T09:42:11.470-05:00Holiday SeasonI'm reposting this because I need to remember my own words and my own advise. I thought maybe some of you could use it too. Love, Paula <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><a href="http://leadingandlovingit.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://leadingandlovingit.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/18.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />As I said in my last blog two weeks ago, "It's that time of year again". &nbsp;Only this time I'm referring to the busyness of the season. &nbsp;There's shopping, wrapping, meal planning, baking, Christmas cards, decorating, parties. &nbsp;The list goes on and on.<br /><br />As I'm writing this, my husband is at the gym. &nbsp;I should be there too, but I have things I want to get done around the house. &nbsp;Instead I decided to first take this time out to write and BREATHE. &nbsp;I have to remind myself to do that. &nbsp;I didn't last week. &nbsp;That's why there was no blog.<br /><br />The activities of the holiday season can be exciting and fun - especially if they're accomplished with love in your heart, not obligation. &nbsp;That's how it <i style="font-weight: bold;">should</i>&nbsp;be. &nbsp;Sometimes though, we get so wrapped up in things we perceive we <i style="font-weight: bold;">have</i>&nbsp;to do, that we feel overwhelmed and burdened, not joy filled. &nbsp;When that happens, we have to just STOP EVERYTHING, take a moment to ourselves, breathe, and figure out what's really important... what's really necessary. &nbsp;The people that love us don't want us to end up sick for the holidays because we worked so hard and didn't take care of ourselves. &nbsp;I think the best gift we can give to our loved ones is for us to be healthy and &nbsp;happy.<br /><br /><a href="http://ashrussell.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/screenshot_71.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="http://ashrussell.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/screenshot_71.jpg" width="320" /></a>You know that "to do" list you have in your purse, "smart phone," table, desk, or where ever it might be? &nbsp;Take it out RIGHT NOW and place yourself right at the very top of that list. &nbsp;Carve out 10 minutes to an hour each day for yourself. &nbsp;Read, relax. watch a movie, meditate, window shop, take a walk or do whatever else makes you happy and rejuvenates your spirit. &nbsp;After that you'll be better able to tackle your "obligations" filled with peace, joy and love. &nbsp;You'll be happier and so will everyone you come in contact with. &nbsp;Give it a try so you and your loved ones<br />can enjoy a happy holiday season.<br /><br />Love, &nbsp;PaulaPaulahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10148819995275241700noreply@blogger.com0